The “Get Your Plate In Shape” essay challenged students to write how they stay healthy and active with family in friends — in 100 words or less.

Avery Dobson, a Locust Grove fourth grader, won the contest.

Leigh Anne Peterson, assistant director for school nutrition, planned a surprise presentation for Dobson in front of the entire school.

A shocked and excited Dobson received a bicycle for winning the contest.

Peterson said her department narrowed the entries down to the best from each school, then to a top five overall.

Dobson wrote that she hopes her healthy eating habits influence those around her and that she enjoys jogging with her parents and playing sports with her friends.

Essay — How I keep my “Plate in Shape”

Staying healthy and active is a great way to get your “Plate in Shape.” We need to live a healthy lifestyle. There are many ways to stay healthy and active with friends and family. One way is to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. When I eat healthy with friends and family they see what I choose and this might influence them. Another way is to drink healthy fluids. I drink healthy fluids to encourage my friends and family to stay hydrated. The last way is to exercise. I enjoy jogging with my parents and playing sports with my friends.